On the Chopping Block: SHS Auto Program May Be Cut

As part of the 2011-12 budget, the automotive program may be in jeopardy of losing its classes.

“The high school automotive program –either in whole or in part- is one of the areas that has been recommended for reduction,”  said Superintendent Les Olson. “All of these proposed reductions would have a significant impact on the programs that we are able to offer our students.”

The automotive program has been a part of the Stoneham High school curriculum for more than 30 years and should be taught for a number of reasons, according to shop teacher Paul Murphy.

“There are many students who do not learn well in a traditional classroom setting," Murphy said. "Many of these students are also unable to get into a technical high school and my program is a good alternative.

“It gives a ‘C’ and ‘D’ student the opportunity to earn an ‘A.’ I have many students and even parents make it perfectly clear that without this program they do not want to be enrolled at Stoneham High. They feel that there needs to be at least one shop class.”

The automotive program at the high school gives a student knowledge and skills that may help them in the future if the student decides to pursue a career in that field.

“I have a student, Steve, who has already been offered a job at a local tire company which most likely would not have been available to him without his experience in the auto shop at Stoneham High,” Murphy said. “Also a few students have attended technical colleges after this program to expand their knowledge even more.

"Students in this program will save themselves thousands of dollars because they will know how to do their own repairs.”

The students are not only learning how to fix cars, but also how to use tools, take proper measurements and all-around hands-on skills.

“I have often said that if you can fix a car, you can do almost anything," Murphy said. "A person who can change a head gasket will use very similar skills when installing a garbage disposal, for example."

Another point Murphy feels was worth mentioning is that his students have a lot of involvement in the maintenance of school equipment.

“Tractors, other field machines and trucks belonging to the school department have all been serviced by my students in an effort to make Stoneham High a self-sufficient operation whenever possible,” Murphy said. “Overall, I feel that our education system does not place enough importance on learning hands-on practical skills.

"We are so focused on the traditional core subjects and getting students to pass MCAS. Shops are often put on the chopping block during budget discussions and this is unfortunate because I teach skills that can be used in everyday life.”